Rugg Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Rugg Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 81.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 685 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 57 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1904 (122 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00518 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Kalkaska County
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rugg Pond Dam?
Rugg Pond Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Rugg Pond Dam?
Rugg Pond Dam is owned by Kalkaska County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rugg Pond Dam built?
Rugg Pond Dam was completed in 1904, making it 122 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Rugg Pond Dam?
Rugg Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rugg Pond Dam?
Rugg Pond Dam has a dam height of 24 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Rugg Pond Dam last inspected?
Rugg Pond Dam was last inspected on July 29, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.